Overview
- The National Hurricane Center upgraded the Gulf disturbance to Tropical Depression Two and began official advisories Monday, saying the system is likely to become Tropical Storm Bertha soon.
- A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect from the Ochlockonee River west to the Florida‑Alabama‑Mississippi border and officials say watches could expand farther west if the center shifts.
- Forecasters expect widespread coastal rainfall of 2 to 4 inches with isolated 6 to 8‑inch totals in stronger storms, plus 1 to 3 feet of water rise at high tide that could produce flash flooding in low areas and cities.
- Intensity and exact timing remain uncertain because the circulation is large and disorganized and is ingesting dry air while increasing upper‑level wind shear and possible land interaction could limit strengthening.
- Central Florida and much of Acadiana are mostly outside the primary threat and should expect outer bands and hotter, drier conditions, while northern Gulf Coast residents should monitor NHC and local NWS updates and prepare for heavy rain and gusty winds.